

Unpacking Israeli History
Unpacked
Join self-confessed history nerd Dr. Noam Weissman on a journey through the fascinating and sometimes controversial events and personalities that have shaped Israel’s past and present. Each week, Noam explores the layers of Israeli history, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the cultural forces at play—drawing on a variety of sources and perspectives. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to better understand this complex region, you’ll find a nuanced, authentic, and thought-provoking take on Israel—free from oversimplification and political spin.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 20, 2024 • 1h 6min
P3: The Aftermath - Six Days That Changed Israel Forever
The 1967 War happened more than 50 years ago. And yet, the legacy of the Six Day War still reverberates throughout the world. Israelis were convinced they were facing another Holocaust. Instead, they achieved one of the most unlikely – and legendary – military victories in history. This miniseries explores the lead-up and legacy of the 6 Day War.~~~~ Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YAwi1kDnHEJfFp3A5FzmclHv0-f82zMvbt9Qp9ziKrY/edit~~~~ Episode 3 of this Six Day War mini-series is generously sponsored by Michael Staenberg, and The Marcus Family Foundation, and Pam and Neil Weissman.

May 13, 2024 • 40min
P2: The Middle East At War - Six Days That Changed Israel Forever
Exploring the intense tensions and threats Israel faced from neighboring countries, the mental toll on IDF Chief of Staff, the Battle for Jerusalem, the iconic declaration 'The Temple Mount is in our hands', the tragic USS Liberty Incident, and the critical moment of securing the Golan Heights

May 6, 2024 • 40min
P1: Lead-Up To War - Six Days That Changed Israel Forever
Explore the lead-up to the legendary 6 Day War in Israel, reflecting on the unlikely military victory, the strategic water politics, and the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Discover the challenges faced by key figures during the post-war period and the enduring impacts on global dynamics and narratives.

Apr 29, 2024 • 23min
Iran's Surprise Attack on Israel: History and Reflections
Exploring Iran's surprise attack on Israel, the podcast delves into historical context, Israel's resilience, and global reactions. Reflecting on the importance of historical context in understanding conflicts. Examining power dynamics in Iran, from Shah Reza Palavi to Ayatollah Khomeini. Highlighting the quest for peace amidst tensions in the Middle East.

11 snips
Apr 22, 2024 • 47min
P3: Did Palestine's Great Revolt (1936-1939) Set the Stage for Oct 7?
Exploring the roots of conflict in Israel/Palestine through the Great Arab Revolt of 1936. Delving into violent tactics, moral debates on terrorism, and the lasting repercussions on the region. Reflecting on the consequences and aftermath of the revolt, examining the impact on society and economy. Pondering on human nature, historical lessons, and the role of education in shaping a positive future.

Apr 8, 2024 • 42min
P2: Did Palestine's Great Revolt (1936-1939) Set the Stage for Oct 7?
Got questions about the current situation in Israel/Palestine? Almost all the answers lie in the Great Arab Revolt of 1936. How is that possible, when the modern state of Israel wasn’t even established until 1948?!This three-part series explores the roots of a seemingly intractable conflict, highlighting unknown figures and outlining what might have been.~~~~ Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PaLZ4afLCh_f6NOFzbZz8izhX1j6FZREiJUS2uLtejw/edit~~~~ This mini series of Unpacking Israeli History is dedicated in memory of Armand Lindenbaum, the grandson of Rav Amiel, by his wife, Jean, and children, Felice, Amiel, and Ariel Lindenbaum-Sebag.

Apr 1, 2024 • 40min
P1: Did Palestine's Great Revolt (1936-1939) Set the Stage for Oct 7?
Got questions about the current situation in Israel/Palestine? Almost all the answers lie in the Great Arab Revolt of 1936. How is that possible, when the modern state of Israel wasn’t even established until 1948?!This three-part series explores the roots of a seemingly intractable conflict, highlighting unknown figures and outlining what might have been.~~~~ Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PaLZ4afLCh_f6NOFzbZz8izhX1j6FZREiJUS2uLtejw/edit~~~~ This mini series of Unpacking Israeli History is dedicated in memory of Armand Lindenbaum, the grandson of Rav Amiel, by his wife, Jean, and children, Felice, Amiel, and Ariel Lindenbaum-Sebag.

Mar 25, 2024 • 35min
P2: Four Obstacles To Israeli-Palestinian Peace
Welcome to the second part of our two-parter about the four seemingly-impossible obstacles that confounded Israeli and Palestinian leaders alike.Why have Israelis and Palestinians never made peace? Despite multiple peace accords, the two peoples are still at war. In this two part episode, we’ll explore the four major obstacles preventing peace: Jerusalem, borders, security, and the refugees. You’ve heard about the “right of return”? East and West Jerusalem? Security fences/walls? Then this episode is for you.~~~~ Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z68Z6bbhV6lRkLYtRqRRn4bDQ2kByJcW4AtDpdy9pH0/edit?usp=sharing~~~~ This episode of Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Barbara & Rick Silverman, The Marcus Family Foundation, and Michael Staenberg.

Mar 18, 2024 • 37min
P1: Four Obstacles To Israeli-Palestinian Peace
Why have Israelis and Palestinians never made peace? Despite multiple peace accords, the two peoples are still at war. In this two part episode, we’ll explore the four major obstacles preventing peace: Jerusalem, borders, security, and the refugees. You’ve heard about the “right of return”? East and West Jerusalem? Security fences/walls? Then this episode is for you.~~~~ Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z68Z6bbhV6lRkLYtRqRRn4bDQ2kByJcW4AtDpdy9pH0/edit?usp=sharing~~~~ This episode of Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Barbara & Rick Silverman, The Marcus Family Foundation, and Michael Staenberg.

Mar 11, 2024 • 45min
Who Are the Israeli Druze? The Loyal Minority at a Crossroads
They serve in the army. They fly the Israeli flag. They call themselves proud Israelis. So why did a 2018 Israeli law leave the Druze community feeling abandoned? In this episode, we unpack the complex story of the Israeli Druze: their history, their identity, their “blood covenant” with the Jewish state—and the moment that made them question it all.
As tensions rise in Syria and the Golan Heights, their story matters more than ever.
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Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h-BJIIJXiWHalkCO0f1YRs15P1upVNr1plM-r0H04PA/edit
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